Tanha is a Pali word that is usually translated as “desire” or “craving.” The Buddha discusses several kinds of tanha, one of which is kama-tanha, a craving for sensual pleasures. This craving is one of the main sources of suffering for beings. The three yanas take different approaches to minimizing this suffering, but all three agree that we should not cling to pleasure. The Buddha taught a middle path between indulgence and extreme renunciation.

Finding a middle path, we can still enjoy simple things such as moving our bodies without clinging to the pleasure, cooking and eating a healthy meal, singing or listening to a song, and creating or admiring a painting. Sensory experiences can be enjoyed with the awareness that they are temporary pleasures that can also be beneficial to our well-being.

Tending to our bodies, or self-care, can include eating well, bathing ourselves, dressing, and exercising. These experiences can be enjoyed as an act of self-generosity that honors our bodies as our vehicle for awakening.

When our bodies are seen as vehicles for awakening, caring for ourselves and appreciating our experiences becomes a sacred act of generosity and kindness.

Reflect on the feeling of appreciating one’s sensory experiences and practicing self-care with awareness.

• What does it feel like to have desire?
• How can we care for our bodies without clinging to pleasure?

Implement mindful self-care practices that honor the body as a vehicle for awakening, and analyze how unrestrained sensory craving creates suffering.